Sharjah: The Ministry of Culture is participating in the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair, taking place from 5th to 17th November at Expo Centre Sharjah. The event features a comprehensive cultural programme aimed at celebrating Emirati identity and empowering creative talent.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Ministry's involvement includes daily sessions and seminars with prominent writers and cultural figures, along with a youth corner organised in collaboration with the Federal Youth Authority. This corner encourages dialogue and debate among young participants. A significant highlight is the Youth and Cultural Identity Hackathon, scheduled from 7th to 9th November, where young Emiratis and experts will collaborate to develop projects that promote Emirati heritage. Additionally, an Arabic Calligraphy and Ornamentation Exhibition, enhanced by virtual reality technology, is being showcased.
For children, the Ministry offers the We Read, Draw, and Dream Together programme, which includes interactive workshops, reading sessions, and calligraphy activities to nurture creativity and imagination. The Ministry is also exhibiting rare Arabic books and poetry by the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Featured works include "Falconry as a Sport: Our Arab Heritage," "Graces from Al Dhafra," and "Pearl for the People," reflecting his vision and legacy.
Book signing sessions are being held for recipients of the Culture and Creativity Grants, providing emerging authors a platform to showcase their works. The Ministry's pavilion also features key national initiatives supporting the creative community, such as the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity, the National Framework for Emirati Cultural Schools Activities, and advisory services on Creative Sabbatical Leave and Golden Visa eligibility.
Mubarak Al Nakhi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, emphasized the importance of the fair as one of the Arab world's foremost literary events, fostering knowledge exchange and supporting the publishing industry. He noted that the initiative aligns with the Ministry's strategy to develop cultural and creative industries and promote Emirati culture as a foundation for an innovative, knowledge-driven society.
The Ministry's participation also highlights the success of the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity, which supported 43 Emirati creatives in 2024. Among the published works are "Qasr Al Zabaa" by Mohammed Al Habsi, "Under the Ghaf Tree" by Sara Al Mehairi, and "The Journey of Falah and Reem" by Fatima Al Alili.